The Punakha Dzong , also known as the ' Palace of Great Happiness' is one of the most beautiful Dzongs in Bhutan. A dzong is a fortified building that incorporates both administrative and monastic institutions. The dzongs in Bhutan serve as a focal point for the local community such as during Tsechus (religious festivals) and showcases the country’s artistic and intellectual heritage. Dzongs are usually built on hill tops or high ground for defensive reasons and tend to dominate the main towns of Bhutan.
This is the second oldest and largest Dzong and was built in the early 16th century. Visited and photographed in March 2018